Downtown Colorado Springs Prepares for Largest-Ever Pride Festival with 168 Local Vendors
Colorado Springs is gearing up for what organizers are calling the biggest Pride celebration in the city's history, with preparations underway for the 2025 Pikes Peak Pride Fest in the heart of downtown. The two-day festival will transform the area around the historic Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, bringing together local businesses, artists, and community members.
Event organizers have secured a record-breaking participation from the Springs business community, with 168 local vendors planning to set up shop along East Vermijo Avenue between South Nevada Avenue and Tejon Street.
Local Impact and Community Involvement
Communications Coordinator Amanda Ridenour highlighted the festival's growing community support:
"The parade is obviously super, super great. We have the most floats and walkers that we've ever had - over 70 this year. It's an amazing lineup of wonderful people in our community that are here to support us."
Event Details and Transportation Solutions
To address previous years' parking challenges, organizers have partnered with local transportation services to offer sustainable solutions:
- Festival dates: Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Downtown parade: Sunday at 11 a.m.
- Free bike storage at Plaza of The Rockies
- Partnership with Pike Rides for alternative transportation
Local Art and Entertainment
Event organizer Justin Burns detailed the festival's expanded entertainment offerings:
"We have art being installed in the park, stairs, sidewalk art, and photo opportunities. We've got the stage going up, our bar, absolute pride lounge."
First-time volunteer Alex Peralta emphasized the festival's welcoming atmosphere: "I think it's important just to show exactly your Pride and how happy you are to be you and that everybody should just be themselves."
Community Impact
The festival represents a significant economic boost for downtown Colorado Springs businesses, with thousands of visitors expected to attend over the weekend. Burns encourages all Colorado families to join the celebrations:
"I look forward to the smiles, the new faces, the old faces, and the parade brings so much joy, whether you're a child or a grandma, grandpa, it's an amazing experience."
For Colorado Springs residents planning to attend, organizers recommend utilizing alternative transportation options and arriving early to enjoy the full range of local vendors, performances, and community celebrations.
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